Ecosystems

Environment

Busy beavers may be speeding thaw of Arctic permafrost

As climate change continues, busy beavers are expanding their range in Alaska. Their dams could further speed the loss of permafrost there and promote local warming.

Ecosystems

Scientists Say: Deforestation

Trees slurp up carbon dioxide and help keep our planet cool. But deforestation cuts those trees down in large numbers.

Earth

On an Alaskan glacier, little green moss balls roll in herds

Oval balls of moss, nicknamed ‘glacier mice,’ roll across some glaciers. A new study explores the mysteries behind their herd-like motion.

Ecosystems

Let’s learn about coral reefs

Coral reefs are home to many important species. But climate change is stressing corals to the max.

Ecosystems

Pooping ducks can shed the live eggs of fish

Some carp eggs survived and even hatched after being pooped by a duck. This may help explain how invasive fish reach isolated waterways.

Ecosystems

Scientists Say: Prairie

Prairies are flat, fertile grasslands in North America. They are their own unique ecosystem.

Oceans

Going bright may help corals recover from bleaching

When some corals bleach, they turn neon colors. Flashy hues may be part of a response that helps these corals recover and reunite with their algae.

Animals

When prey get scarce, these jellies become cannibals

Invasive comb jellies may feast on their larvae if massive population booms in summer deplete their prey.

Environment

Pesticides can have long-term impact on bumblebee learning

Pesticide-laced nectar and pollen can permanently harm the brains of baby bumblebees.

Microbes

Check out the communities of bacteria living on your tongue

Bacteria scraped off the tongue offer a window into how the microbes structure their communities.

Animals

Let’s learn about the creepy crawlies in your home

From ants to spiders to crickets to bed bugs — a whole host of insects and other arthropods may be hanging out with you at home.

Animals

How an encounter with this odd-looking bird inspired a career

Kevin Burgio overcame many hardships to become a scientist. Now he studies how animals like the Carolina parakeet and Tasmanian tiger went extinct.